If you or a loved one are dealing with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), you’re probably familiar with the struggles that come with managing these conditions. Thankfully, advances in medicine have led to the creation of treatments like Entyvio, which can help manage the symptoms of IBD.
Let’s learn more about what Entyvio infusion is used for and how it works.
What is Entyvio and Its Use?
Entyvio, also known as vedolizumab, is a type of medication administered through intravenous (IV) infusion. It’s designed to treat adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s disease (CD) — two of the most common forms of IBD.
Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the rectum and colon. The main symptoms of UC include diarrhea, passing blood with your stool, and abdominal pain.
In some severe cases, UC can affect the entire colon and cause severe pain, heavy diarrhea, bleeding, and fever. The disease is characterized by periods of flare-ups, where symptoms worsen, and periods of remission, where symptoms lessen or disappear.
Crohn’s Disease (CD)
Unlike UC, Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation anywhere along the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. However, it most commonly affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the colon.
Symptoms of CD can vary greatly depending on the part of the digestive tract affected but may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition. Like UC, Crohn’s disease also has periods of flare-ups and remission.
Entyvio is typically recommended for patients who have not responded well to other standard treatments for UC or CD, such as corticosteroids. It’s also used when patients cannot tolerate these treatments due to side effects.
How Does Entyvio Work?
Entyvio works by blocking a specific protein molecule called ‘integrin.’ Integrins are a family of proteins that exist on the surface of cells. They play crucial roles in various biological processes, including cell adhesion, signaling, and proliferation. In the context of UC and CD, integrins play a significant role in causing inflammation in the gut.
By blocking integrin, Entyvio helps reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating the symptoms of these diseases.
What Can You Expect During an Entyvio Infusion?
There are several steps that healthcare providers follow to ensure a safe and effective treatment process. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Health Status Check
Before starting the Entyvio infusion, healthcare providers will record your height, weight, temperature, blood pressure, and pulse. They will inquire about your current health status and any symptoms or discomfort you may be experiencing.
It’s important to provide accurate information as this data is shared with your physician for comprehensive care.
Initiation of IV And Medication Administration
The first step in the infusion process is setting up the IV. The healthcare team will identify a suitable vein, usually in your arm, and insert a small needle to establish the IV line. If necessary, they may conduct lab tests at this point to assess your health status and ensure you’re ready for the infusion.
Infusion Duration
The infusion process usually takes about 30 minutes, and patients generally receive the treatment every eight weeks after the initial doses.
Post-Infusion Saline Flush
After infusing the medication, the healthcare team will administer a saline flush. This lasts about 10-15 minutes and serves several purposes. It helps ensure all the medication has been flushed from the IV tubing into your bloodstream. It also helps to clear the IV line and prevent it from becoming blocked.
Monitoring During Infusion
Throughout the infusion process, the healthcare team will monitor your vital signs, including your blood pressure and pulse, approximately every 30 minutes. This is to ensure you’re tolerating the infusion well and to keep an eye out for any potential adverse reactions.
Post-Infusion Assessment
Once the infusion is complete, the healthcare team will perform a final assessment. They’ll check your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature to ensure you’re in stable condition post-infusion. Only then will they remove the IV.
Entyvio for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Treatment in Atlanta, GA
At GI Care Infusion, we offer state-of-the-art infusion services in a comfortable outpatient setting. Our team of dedicated healthcare professionals is committed to providing personalized infusion therapy for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease tailored to your specific needs.
To learn more about us or schedule a consultation with one of our providers, call our friendly staff today at (470) 785-4616 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
